Biomass Saccharification and Screening for Production of Pectinase from Physocladia obscura JEL 513

Aim: This study documents for the first time the production of pectinase by Physocladia obscura JEL 513 and the optimization of its production in solid-state fermentation.

Study Design: OFAT (One Factor At a Time).

Place and Duration of Study: Botany Department, Faculty of Biological Science, University of British Columbia, Vancouver BC, Canada between January and June 2016.

Methodology: Physocladia obscura JEL 513 was screened for its ability to grow on citrus peels and produce enzyme(s). After confirmation of pectinase production, several parameters of incubation time, pH and temperature on polygalacturonase activity were studied in screening and optimization investigations.

Results: The maximum yield of pectinase was 760.785 U/g at 25ºC in an orange waste peel medium of pH 6 after the fifth day of fermentation. High performance ion exchange liquid chromatography showed that, the concentration but not the relative monosaccharide composition changed in the investigated peels. Partial enzymatic degradation was evaluated by comparing the chemical thermal stability using a thermogravimetric technique of the fermented as well as the non-fermented citrus peels fibers.

Conclusion: These results suggest that P. obscura JEL 513 shows promise in transforming agro-waste into a substrate for commercial enzyme production with potential broad benefits for regional economies.